Memphis Chefs Get Creative with Thanksgiving Leftovers!
Hey Memphis! The Thanksgiving feast may be over, but the deliciousness doesn’t have to end! If youโre staring down a mountain of leftover turkey and wondering what to do with it, weโve got some fantastic ideas to transform that bird into mouthwatering meals that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
The Classic Turkey Sandwich
First up on the list is the ever-popular turkey sandwich. This is a simple yet satisfying way to repurpose your leftover turkey. Slice that turkey thick and pile it high between two slices of your favorite bread. Add a smear of cranberry sauce, a handful of crisp lettuce, and a slice or two of cheese for that perfect cheesy, tangy combination. If you want to shake things up, why not throw in some avocado or a drizzle of ranch dressing? The skyโs the limit!
Get Spicy with Turkey Tamales
If youโre feeling a bit adventurous in the kitchen, try making turkey tamales. Itโs a fun way to blend cultures and celebrate creativity! Shred the leftover turkey and mix it with spices, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Then, wrap it all up in masa (corn dough) and steam them to perfection. You can enjoy them as a snack or even serve them as a main dish with salsa on the side!
Homemade Turkey Broth
Donโt forget about that turkey carcass! Instead of tossing it in the trash, brew up a hearty turkey broth. Simply toss the bones into a big pot, add water, onions, carrots, and celery, and let it simmer away. In just a couple of hours, youโll have a rich, flavorful broth ready to be enjoyed in a lovely warm soup. Itโs a great base for everything from classic chicken noodle to spicy pozole.
Turkey Pozole to Warm You Up
Speaking of pozole, itโs time to spice things up! Turn your turkey into a comforting bowl of pozole. Mix shredded turkey with hominy, spices, and a splash of lime juice for a warm and hearty meal. Top it off with fresh radishes, avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro to add a burst of freshness. Your family will be begging for seconds โ we promise!
Shepherdโs Pie with a Twist
If you enjoyed mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving, transform them into a delicious topping for turkey shepherd’s pie. Layer your shredded turkey with veggies, pour in some gravy, and then slather those silky mashed potatoes on top. Bake it until golden, and youโve got yourself a comforting dish that will warm your heart on those chilly Memphis evenings!
Turkey Salad for a Light Option
Looking for something a bit lighter? How about a turkey salad? Combine shredded turkey with your choice of greens, crunchy nuts, dried cranberries, and a yummy dressing. Itโs a great way to use up leftovers without feeling heavy, and it packs in lots of flavor!
Wrap It Up!
In the end, don’t let those Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste! With just a little creativity, you can take that turkey from the feast and transform it into something surprisingly delightful. Whether youโre craving something savory, tangy, or a bit spicy, Memphis chefs remind us that the possibilities are endless!
So grab your leftovers and get cooking โ your taste buds will thank you! Happy eating, Memphis!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
